Gaziantep

Gaziantep, a city in southeastern Turkey, is famous for its rich culinary traditions and ancient landmarks. You'll find the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to stunning Roman artworks, and a hilltop castle with roots in the Roman era. The city's bazaars offer local delicacies like pistachio baklava, contributing to Gaziantep's UNESCO recognition for its gastronomy.

Culinary Capital of Turkey

Gaziantep's cuisine earned it UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy status in 2015. The city is renowned for its pistachios, which flavor many local dishes. You can try over 400 regional specialties, including various kebabs, lahmacun (thin meat-topped flatbread), and yuvarlama (a yogurt-based soup). Don't miss the chance to taste Gaziantep baklava, recognized by the European Union as a protected Turkish product.

Zeugma Mosaic Museum

The Zeugma Mosaic Museum houses a collection of Roman mosaics, many rescued from the ancient city of Zeugma before it was flooded by dam construction. You'll see floor mosaics depicting mythological scenes and everyday life in Roman times. The museum's centerpiece is the "Gypsy Girl" mosaic, known for its enigmatic expression.

Gaziantep Castle

Gaziantep Castle sits on a hill in the city center, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Its history dates back to the Roman period, with later additions by the Byzantines and Ottomans. Inside the castle's walls and towers, you'll find exhibits about the city's role in the Turkish War of Independence. The castle was damaged in the 2023 earthquake, so check its current status before visiting.

Crafts and Markets

Gaziantep is known for its copperware and Yemeni sandals. In the Coppersmith Bazaar, you can watch artisans at work and buy handcrafted copper items. The city's markets are full of local products. At Almacı Pazarı, the local food market, you'll find spices, dried fruits, and nuts. Look for regional specialties like red pepper flakes and zahter, a local variety of wild thyme used in salads and tea.

A City with Deep Roots

Gaziantep's history spans over 6,000 years, with evidence of settlement dating to the 4th millennium BCE. The city has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Hittites, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. This long history is reflected in Gaziantep's architecture, cuisine, and cultural practices. The prefix "Gazi" was added to the city's name in 1921, recognizing its resistance during the Turkish War of Independence.

Getting There and Around

Gaziantep has its own airport with regular flights from Istanbul and other major Turkish cities. In the city, you can use the local bus system or the light rail network, which has three lines covering major areas of interest. Taxis are also available, but agree on a price before starting your journey.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Gaziantep has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). Winters are cool and can be snowy, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) have milder temperatures and are good for sightseeing. If you're interested in local events, visit during the GastroAntep International Gaziantep Gastronomy Festival, usually held in September.